even infecting humans. Pest resistance also could kill off insects, depriving birds and frogs of food, which could lead to a dangerous imbalance in the ecology of an area.
             Recently in the news is the controversy spotlighting the use of Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) corn. Bt is a common soil bacteria which produces toxins that target certain insects, in particular the European corn borer. When the specific gene from this particular strain of bacteria is transferred into the corn it resists infestation from this pest. Though it seems to be a natural and effective alternative to chemical insecticides, there are still ecologists who contend that widespread planting of these crops over time will develop in a resistance to Bt among crop pests. In addition, there was an experiment implemented at Cornell University about the deadly effect of the corn pollen on the magnificent and endangered Monarch butterfly. Apparently, after eating the corn pollen that was dusted on plants most populated by the Monarch-butterfly caterpillars, many died. Subsequent studies have shown that the effect of the pollen form commercial hybrids is negligible because toxicity and exposure of caterpillars is low. (Note: Conventional insecticides would kill all kinds of insects)
             Health Problems Associated with Transgenic Crops
             Scientists are always searching for genes coding for enzymes and proteins that can be profitably spliced into crops. These genes confer pest and disease resistance and tolerance of pollution, and often increase the growth rate of crops. However, there are certain health risks involved in this practice. For example, some people have a food allergy known as favism that causes an adverse reaction to the protein lectin, found in beans and other leguminous crops. Since lectin discourages aphids, common insect pests, from feeding on beans, the gene for making lectin has recently been engineered into potatoes. People with favism, unknowingly eat...